Hints for Hiring

Before you interview any bookkeepers be sure that you have identified:

Exactly what services you want a bookkeeper to provide, a detailed list will help.

How much time you think it will require, how often and any scheduling restraints.

Where the bookkeeping will take place, your office or theirs.

How much you are willing to pay and frequency of payment.

Any specialized accounting or software requirements.

Ask for a resume in advance of the interview. Once you have chosen your candidates, ask for three references.

It is a good idea to use an application form that reflects current employment law.

It is imperative to do a background check once you have decided on a candidate, as you are entrusting this person with your confidential financial information and giving them access to your cash accounts, credit cards, etc. Many payroll service companies provide background checks for a reasonable fee even if you aren’t a payroll client.

Here are some ideas for questions to ask a prospective bookkeeper.

How many years have you been an independent bookkeeper?

Do you consider yourself a full charge bookkeeper? If not, what are your areas of weakness?

Are there bookkeeping services that you do not perform? (Typically this might be payroll.)

How many clients do you currently have? Briefly describe what you do for them.

What do you do to stay up-to-date on bookkeeping issues and software?

Do you generally coordinate your work with the client’s CPA? If not, why not?